Best Skis

The Atomic Redster S9 is a high-performance slalom ski designed for experienced skiers who prioritize speed and agility. It features an Ultra Power Woodcore for explosive acceleration and Revoshock Technology for improved stability at high speeds. Popular among World Cup racers, the S9 is known for its exceptional responsiveness, edge hold, and stability.

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The Atomic Redster S9s are my go-to skis when I’m in the mood to work on my tight, technical, turns. They're light and respond well to quick changes of direction, unlike some heavier skis that are meant for more sustained carving, which is a result of their Ultra Power Woodcore. That’s exactly what you would expect from purpose-built slalom skis. Although these are often seen as advanced level skis, I’d also recommend them to an intermediate skier who wants to build good technique and habits instead of just bombing every run.

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Adrian Ryan

The Black Pearl 88 is a versatile all-mountain ski designed for women. The TrueBlend All-Mountain Woodcore offers a harder flex in the center where you need more strength and softer in the tip and tail for more forgiveness and an easy power release. The FluxForm W.S.D. construction provides a balance of stability and playfulness. Whether you're cruising the groomers or exploring the backcountry, this ski delivers a smooth and enjoyable ride.

The Salomon QST series is a versatile all-mountain ski. With various shapes and rocker profiles, these skis excel in both on-piste and off-piste conditions. Carbon Powered C/FX technology enhances dampening and power, while full ABS sidewalls and Powerframe Ti ensure edge grip and stability.

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I’ve tried out a number of skis within the Salomon QST family since they were introduced back in 2016. There’s a huge number of different models out there, but they all share a few common features: namely, ease of control and maneuverability across a variety of conditions and terrain types. Keep an eye out for QST 106s and later models, as that model is the first to feature a large swathe of updates to improve performance.

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Adrian Ryan

The Rossignol Hero FIS SL Pro skis are designed for elite slalom racers. LCT technology provides precise control and superior grip at high speeds, while a Full Camber maximizes power transfer. These high-performance skis deliver exceptional results on the World Cup circuit.

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The Rossignol Hero FIS SL Pro Skis are premium race skis that are targeted at the absolute highest level of skiers out there. They’re actually approved by FIS—the International Ski and Snowboard Federation—for use in professional events and, as you’d expect, they’re packed full of the latest and greatest ski technology. You don’t necessarily need to be a pro to rip some runs in these, but you really do need to know what you’re doing. I’m not a pro, but as an expert skier, I can tell you that you feel powerful skiing in them because you can really get close to your limits.

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Adrian Ryan

Atomic Bent Chetler Skis are lightweight and designed for deep powder, featuring HRZN Tech and ABS sidewall construction that increases surface area in the tips and tails by 10% while minimizing tip deflection. With a light woodcore and carbon backbone, these skis maintain stability and are ultra-lightweight. Their steel edges are five times more wear-resistant than standard steel, ensuring strength and grip. Popular among adult freeriders, they are now available in various sizes for all ages.

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There’s rarely a ski that can do it all. Do you want a ski that’s lightweight, flexible, buttery, and capable in the park? Do you also want a ski that can carve, float through powder, and maintain stability at high speeds? If the answer is yes to all of the above, then Atomic’s Bent Chetler makes a great choice. With three models, one in 100mm, 110mm, and 120mm, all of Chetler’s feature twin tips and a powder focused build. While the 120mm model is probably best used solely as a powder ski, the 100mm and 110mm work great as an all-mountain setup and are surprisingly responsive on the hard pack and ice.

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Ben Goodman

The Nordica Santa Ana 93 is a versatile all-mountain ski designed for advanced and expert skiers. Its performance wood core and Terrain-Specific metal construction provide a balance of stability, power, and flotation, making it equally capable on groomed runs and in deep snow. With its easy-turning nature and smooth ride, the Santa Ana 93 is the perfect choice for skiers who want a single pair of skis to handle any condition, any mountain, any time.

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In the world of women’s skis, year after year, there are always two models that sell out the rest: Blizzard’s Black Pearl and Nordica’s Santa Ana. While both offer models with wider and narrower waist widths, the Santa Ana stands out with their 93mm model. It's well balanced, stable at high speeds, and effective at both carving on ice and floating through powder. Women looking for a well-rounded all-mountain ski should look no further. Nordica’s Santa Ana 93 is truly a one-quiver choice for the skier that does it all.

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Ben Goodman

The Rossignol Hero Athlete SL skis are designed for advanced skiers seeking agility and responsiveness. LCT technology provides precise control and superior grip at high speeds, while Carbon Laminate enhances edge hold. These high-performance skis deliver exceptional results on the slalom slopes.

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The Rossignol Hero Athlete SL Skis are the slalom version of the company’s incredibly popular junior competition ski, the Hero Athlete GS Skis. They strike just the right balance between speed and maneuverability, like all the best slalom skis, as well as well-optimized sidewalls that ensure your edges with grip. As a result, I’d say that they’re the perfect ski for the budding slalom champion. Especially since they’re easy to find used and are usually really well taken care of!

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Adrian Ryan

The Atomic Redster G9 is a high-performance ski that brings World Cup technology to the slopes. Inspired by the skis used by professional racers like Mikaela Shiffrin, the Redster G9 offers exceptional edge grip, stability, and responsiveness. Its Ultra Power Wood Core, titanal laminates, and Servotec technology deliver a powerful and precise ride, making it ideal for advanced skiers who demand the best. Whether you're carving turns on groomed runs or tackling challenging terrain, the Redster G9 will elevate your skiing experience.

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When it comes to racing, Atomic has led the pack since 2012 with their Redster line of skis. Dedicated to racing and piste, Redsters are designed to carve, turn, and speed down the mountain with precise grip and handling. Atomic offers a variety of models, some more ‘piste-forward’ and others more ‘race-forward’. The Redster G9 is Atomic's more resort-friendly race skis with a shorter turn radius. Build to go fast and maintain stability all the while.

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Ben Goodman

The Rossignol Hero FIS GS Pro skis feature size-specific flexes and balanced constructions to perfectly match the skiers growth and skill development. Race-proven Line Control Technology (LCT) ensures unrivaled precision and control, eliminating counter-flexing for unwavering line stability.

The Fischer RC4 World Cup SL ski is a lightning-fast race ski engineered for aggressive turns. Featuring specialized shovel construction and the powerful M-Plate, these skis deliver explosive acceleration and unmatched agility. Hole Ski technology enhances stability, while the World Cup race base ensures lightning-fast speed.

The HEAD World Cup Rebels e-GS RD Skis are designed for elite-level giant slalom racers, offering exceptional speed, stability, and precision. The e-GS RD skis feature Titanium Stabilizer which provides stability and vibration dampening, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride. These skis also feature HEAD's innovative EMC technology, which provides enhanced vibration control and improved energy transfer.

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The HEAD World Cup Rebels e-GS RD Skis are a serious pair of skis for serious skiers. They also feel amazing whatever type of conditions you’re skiing, as a result of the vibration-dampening technology they contain. And, yes, I’m even talking about those terrible icy marbles. All and all, these are some of the best performing skis that you can get for an affordable price when buying used.

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Adrian Ryan

The Rossignol Experience ski offers a balanced blend of stability and agility. LCT technology ensures smooth turns, while the progressive sidecut and HD Core TI provide a dampened ride. This versatile ski is perfect for skiers of all levels seeking a reliable and enjoyable experience on the slopes.

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Although Rossignol is mostly known for World Cup-inspired carving skis, they really did knock it out of the park with their take on the all-mountain concept. I wouldn’t be going out on a limb by saying that they didn’t quite produce a dedicated pair of freeriders, but that wasn’t really what they were going for. These skis are more than able to handle some off-piste and glade skiing while also keeping together on groomed runs as well as you’d expect a Rossignol product to perform (which is quite well, for the record).

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Adrian Ryan

The HEAD World Cup Rebels i. GS RD skis deliver unmatched acceleration, supreme balance, and faultless control to dominate any GS competition. Boasting the most Olympic medals of any ski, its legacy is built on refined racing technology. Head's aggressive construction provides the explosive power and precise responsiveness you need to outrun the competition, while the lightweight, ultra-responsive core integrates Titanal, Graphene, and intelligent technology for unmatched strength and control.

The HEAD Supershape e-Titan skis features a 84mm waist for enhanced versatility, and Graphene technology that ensures lightweight power. The Race Structured Bases and World Cup Sandwich construction deliver exceptional speed and precision. The innovative EMC (Electronic Management Circuit) uniquely filters vibrations, resulting in smooth skiing and superior edge grip in any conditions.

The Fischer RC4 World Cup GS skis feature cutting-edge World Cup technology, to deliver exceptional speed, precision, and control. Sensational edge grip provides the confidence young racers need, while direct power transfer ensures explosive acceleration and unrivaled responsiveness. The stable wood core minimizes vibrations for a smooth and controlled ride, and the race-ready base eliminates the need for sidewall planning.

The Nordica Enforcer 94 Skis offer a versatile blend of power and playfulness. The wood core and titanal layers provide a strong, energetic feel, while the progressive shaping allows for easy maneuverability. Whether you're cruising the groomers or exploring the trees, the Enforcer delivers a smooth, confident ride.

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I know that not many people will travel to the mountain with a variety of different skis so that they can adjust to changing conditions, which makes a pair of great all-rounders like Nordica Enforcers incredibly valuable. The skis are wide enough to perform well in powder, even if it’s very deep, while the base’s tapered shape still allows you to carve on groomed trails. You’ll really feel the full range of possibilities that these skis afford you when you’re skiing groomed trails in the morning, but get enough extra snow during the day to ski some powder by your last few runs.

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Adrian Ryan

The Atomic Redster FIS GS skis feature revoshock technology that absorbs bumps for unmatched stability and control, while maintaining lightning-fast edge-to-edge transitions and explosive acceleration. Full-length sidewalls and Ultra TI Powered laminate ensure unwavering edge hold and torsional rigidity, even in the most demanding conditions.

The Volkl Chica0 features a scientifically designed shape, flex, and tip rocker for effortless turns. The 109-69-88mm shape (from length 120cm and on) provides exceptional stability and playful maneuverability, making learning to ski a joy. The optional vMotion Jr binding, compatible with Grip Walk soles, ensures secure power transfer and comfortable step-in convenience.

The Fischer RC4 Race skis delivers explosive acceleration and unparalleled edge grip, allowing skiers to carve precise turns with incredible precision. The stiff metal plate maximizes power transfer for lightning-fast edge changes, while the FIS-compliant design ensures the skier to meet all race regulations.

The K2 Indy skis feature Catch Free Rocker technology with a gradual rise in the tip and tail ensures smooth and easy turn initiation at slower speeds. The lightweight Composite Core enhances maneuverability and provides a forgiving ride, making learning to ski a breeze.

The Völkl Racetiger GS skis offer exceptional performance on the giant slalom slopes. Tailored Carbon Tip technology provides precise torsional control, allowing for a more direct and agile approach to the gate. These skis also feature Full Sidewall ABSm which offer durability and impact resistance, protecting the ski from the rigors of racing. These skis are a top choice for competitive skiers seeking speed, stability, and precision.

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Although Volkl doesn’t quite have the profile of some other ski manufacturers, I’ve always enjoyed heading up the chairlift clipped into a couple of their skis. The Volkl Racetiger GS Skis are my favorite skis for those days you’re going to spend on hard or even icy slopes, since they have the strength and bite to keep you feeling confident in challenging conditions. They’re fast enough to be used in junior competition, if that’s what you’re looking for, but they’re also versatile enough to work as a day-to-day ski.

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Adrian Ryan

The Nordica Dobermann GS WC skis are the perfect blend of wood and metal construction that provides unmatched stability and responsiveness, while the 10mm Marker Piston Plate maximizes energy transfer for explosive acceleration. Available in soft or stiff flex options, the hand-finished Dobermann GS WC Dept is designed to meet the demands of the most competitive racers.

The Elan Exar E-Rise skis feature an easy-to-handle, lightweight design. The Early Rise Rocker profile with gradual tip and tail rocker enhances maneuverability and reduces the risk of catching an edge, making turns smooth and effortless. Constructed with a durable Comprex Wood Core and reinforced with fiberglass layers.

The Head Pure Joy skis are designed specifically for women, delivering a stable, confident, and exhilarating on-snow experience. Biomechanically tuned to the female form, these skis provide effortless performance from tip to tail. Head's innovative EMC technology reduces negative vibrations, allowing skiers to focus on their skiing and enjoy a smooth, stable ride. Incorporating LYT Tech, utilizing the lightest and strongest materials available, these skis offer exceptional performance without compromising weight.

The Atomic Vantage skis are a lightweight all-mountain powerhouse that excels in a variety of conditions. Despite its incredibly light weight, this ski boasts exceptional edge grip and precision thanks to Atomic's innovative Prolite construction with Energy Backbone and Titanium Tank Mesh. This unique combination delivers impressive stability and power while maintaining a remarkably low weight, setting the Atomic Vantage apart from other skis in its class.

The Volkl RTM skis are designed for frontside performance with a wider waist width for versatility. Volkl's innovative 3D Ridge and 3D Glass construction techniques provide exceptional stability and power, while the UVO vibration damping system with steel construction ensures a smooth, quiet, and composed ride.

The Rossignol Hero Athlete GS skis are designed for serious giant slalom racers. Inspired by World Cup race skis, they feature Carbon Laminate for enhanced edge hold and responsiveness. This high-performance ski delivers maximum speed, stability, and control on the slopes.

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The GS Skis are the first pair of race skis that many kids get to own, and that makes a lot of sense, since that’s exactly who Rossignol designed them for. They certainly fit the bill, providing enough speed and edge control to take on Giant Slalom and Super G courses. In many ways, they’re the obvious choice for parents who are looking to get a competitive pair of race skis for their children. On the other hand, if that doesn’t exactly describe what you’re looking for, you might want to try to find more versatile skis that will open up more of the mountain.

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Adrian Ryan

The Fischer Stunner skis with are lightweight and easy to flex due to the Air Power Core and Cap Construction, which provide the control and stability needed to build confidence on the slopes. The traditional camber profile enhances stability and helps young skiers manage their speed as they gain experience with downhill skiing.

The HEAD SuperShape Team skis feature ERA 2.0 technology, which offer a perfectly balanced design for enhanced stability and control. The lightweight construction and easy-to-use bindings minimize fatigue, allowing kids to enjoy longer days on the slopes.

The Elan Explore 6 skis are designed for ease of use and control. These skis feature a forgiving Parabolic Rocker profile that makes turn initiation smooth and effortless. Elan's Groove Technology enhances edge hold, while the lightweight construction and adjustable bindings provide a comfortable and enjoyable skiing experience.

The Blizzard Cochise skis represent a significant advancement in rocker ski design, finally realizing the technology's full potential. The Cochise excels in hard-snow carving, offering a stable, lively, and smooth ride that rivals traditional carving skis. This exceptional performance is attributed to its "natural" rocker, a simple, smooth curve from tip to tail that provides an incredibly natural feel.

The Head Monster Easy JRS skis feature a synergistic system of ski, binding, and plate that promotes a softer flex, enabling effortless turns with minimal energy expenditure. Their lightweight construction and user-friendly bindings make them easy to carry and operate, reducing fatigue and allowing young adventurers to explore the mountain with more energy and confidence.

The Head Supershape skis push the boundaries of on-piste performance with innovative technologies designed to deliver a thrilling and exhilarating ride. Crossforce Carbon technology, exclusive to the Supershape collection, features an exposed carbon layer that directly enhances power transfer and responsiveness. Combined with Energy Management Circuit (EMC) technology, which reduces negative vibrations for a smooth and stable ride.

The Elan Formula skis deliver effortless and forgiving performance thanks to their innovative design. Featuring Early Rise Rocker for smooth turn initiation, a lightweight and maneuverable Full Power Cap construction, these skis are built for ease. Fiberglass reinforcement enhances torsional stiffness, while the integrated Quick Shift System, with its softer flex plate, further simplifies turning.

The Elan Lil' Magic skis are designed with a lightweight and forgiving construction. Featuring a Fiberglass composite core and Full Power Cap, which ensures effortless control and durability, resisting scratches and chips. Perfect for smaller, lighter skiers, these skis provide a confidence-boosting experience.

The Elan Pinball skis are featuring Early Rise Rocker and a forgiving Synflex core, which provide easy handling and smooth performance. For the youngest shredders in sizes 105 and 115, the innovative U-Flex Technology delivers a 25% softer flex, making turning effortless and boosting skill development from the very first run, ensuring skiing is fun and accessible for budding park enthusiasts.

The K2 Mindbender skis are a line of high-performance freeride skis featuring a range of waist widths to suit different skiing styles and conditions. Wider skis are better for a deep powder, while narrower skis are more agile on groomers. The Mindbender skis have All-Terrain Rocker, which provides a balance of stability and maneuverability, making it easy to turn and float in powder.

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I get why it’s the case, but it can be frustrating that so many freeride or powder skis are either too pricey or too advanced for intermediate skiers. Thankfully, the K2 Mindbenders are here for those looking to dip their toes into bowl or backcountry skiing without breaking the bank or needing expert-level skills. They provide a great entry point into more adventurous skiing while keeping you comfortable and in control, making them a solid choice for those who aren’t quite ready for high-end models like the Blizzard Rustler 11 Skis.

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Adrian Ryan

The Head KORE Team skis offer control and stability thanks to a construction utilizing high strength-to-weight ratio materials, including Graphene and a Sandwich Cap Construction. A durable topsheet withstands the rigors of young skiers, while tip and tail rocker enhances flotation in softer snow and makes turn initiation effortless.

The Elan Jett skis, featuring the U-Flex increases ski flex by 25%, making learning easier and promoting a quicker transition to edge control. Combined with specially designed, softer flexing ski boots, the Jett provides an optimal learning platform, all wrapped in a sleek design inspired by Elan's Precision series.

The K2 Amp Strike skis offer exceptional value for beginner skiers, providing a smooth and controlled learning experience. K2's MOD technology effectively dampens vibrations, enhancing edge-hold and stability, while the Catch-Free Rocker profile facilitates easy turn initiation and effortless stability.